Texas is home to magnificent raptors, with both the Bald Eagle and the Golden Eagle gracing its diverse landscapes. These powerful birds of prey can be found across various regions of the state, adding to its rich biodiversity.
Types of Eagles in Texas
Two primary eagle species inhabit Texas: the Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and the Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos). Each possesses distinct characteristics that allow for identification and highlight their specialized hunting methods. Understanding these differences helps in appreciating their ecological roles.
The Bald Eagle is a large raptor with a wingspan typically ranging from six to seven feet; females can be larger, reaching up to eight feet. Adults are easily recognized by their dark brown bodies, contrasting white heads and tails, and large yellow beaks. Younger Bald Eagles, however, are mostly brown with white mottling on their bodies and wings, gradually acquiring their iconic white plumage around five to six years of age. These opportunistic feeders primarily consume fish, which they snatch from the water with their powerful talons, but they also prey on waterfowl, small mammals, turtles, and carrion. They are also known to steal prey from other birds.
Golden Eagles have a wingspan similar to Bald Eagles, often around seven feet. Their plumage is dark brown overall, distinguished by golden-brown feathers on the back of their necks and heads. Immature Golden Eagles often display white patches on their wings and tails, which can sometimes lead to confusion with immature Bald Eagles. Unlike the fish-focused diet of Bald Eagles, Golden Eagles primarily hunt small to medium-sized mammals such as rabbits, hares, ground squirrels, and prairie dogs. They are powerful predators capable of taking down larger prey like coyotes or even small deer, and they will also consume carrion.
Where to Find Eagles in Texas
The distribution of eagles across Texas varies. Bald Eagles are commonly found near bodies of water, which supply their primary food source. They inhabit areas like large lakes, rivers, reservoirs, and coastal regions. Breeding populations are concentrated in the eastern half of the state and along the Gulf Coast, from Rockport to Houston, where they construct massive stick nests. During the winter months, non-breeding and migrating Bald Eagles can also be seen in Central Texas and the Panhandle.
Numerous state parks and natural areas offer opportunities to observe Bald Eagles:
Lake Livingston
Caddo Lake
Lake Tawakoni
Brazos Bend State Park
Sheldon Lake State Park
Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge
Canyon of the Eagles at Lake Buchanan
Fairfield Lake State Park
Golden Eagles, conversely, prefer arid and open landscapes, making them more prevalent in the western and central parts of Texas. They are resident birds in these regions, breeding from early February to November, with winter visitors present from late August to late April. Their preferred habitats include mountains, canyons, grasslands, and shrublands, often utilizing secluded cliffs for nesting. Major populations are found in the Texas Panhandle, including the Palo Duro-Caprock Canyon Complex, and in the Trans-Pecos region, such as the Davis Mountains.
Conservation and Responsible Viewing
Both Bald and Golden Eagles are protected by state and federal laws. The Bald Eagle, once severely impacted by pesticides like DDT, has made a remarkable recovery and was delisted from the Endangered Species Act in 2007.
Federal protections are provided by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940, which was expanded in 1962 to include Golden Eagles. This act prohibits the “taking,” possession, sale, purchase, barter, transport, export, or import of any Bald or Golden Eagle, alive or dead, including their parts, nests, or eggs, without a permit. The term “take” includes pursuing, shooting, wounding, killing, capturing, molesting, or disturbing the birds. Disturbing an eagle is defined as agitating it to a degree that causes or is likely to cause injury, a decrease in productivity, or nest abandonment. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 also protects eagles, making it unlawful to pursue, hunt, capture, kill, or sell them or their parts, nests, or eggs.
Responsible eagle viewing is paramount to ensuring these birds continue to thrive. When observing eagles, maintaining a respectful distance is crucial; a minimum of 330 feet from nests is a general guideline, but if an eagle changes its behavior due to human presence, it signifies being too close. Using binoculars or spotting scopes allows for observation without disturbing the birds.
Observers should remain in or near their vehicles at roadside viewing locations and avoid loud noises or sudden movements. It is important never to try to make an eagle fly or approach nests, as such actions can cause stress, disrupt feeding, or lead to nest abandonment. Respecting private property and adhering to all posted signs is also essential for ethical wildlife viewing.